Hyperthermia is a serious condition that can be caused by heat stress, a high-intensity activity or medical conditions. Symptoms may include hot, dry skin, muscle cramps or spasms, and a feeling of weakness or fatigue.
The CDC says that it is important to know the signs of hyperthermia. This will help you know when to call your healthcare provider.
Symptoms of hyperthermia vary depending on the stage of the condition. The most severe form is heat stroke, which can be fatal if not treated right away.
When the body is too warm, the brain cannot cool it properly and you can get a fever or a very low body temperature (hypothermia). In either case, you need medical attention as soon as possible.
Heat rash: When the weather is hot, sweating can cause a rash that looks like small red pimples on your neck, upper chest, arms or breasts. These rashes can be itchy, sore or painful. You might also have red, swollen or blistered feet.
You should try to stay in the shade as much as possible and wear light-colored clothing. You can use an umbrella or fan to help keep you cool.
Drink plenty of water and other liquids containing salt, such as sports drinks, diluted fruit juices or plain water with a pinch of salt added. You can also use a cool compress on the affected area.
The most common cause of heat rash is excessive sweating during exercise in hot weather. You can prevent this condition by reducing your physical exertion.
When you start to feel these symptoms, stop your activity immediately and rest in a cool place. If you’re sweating heavily, apply a cold compress to your face or hands.
Medications that can bring your body temperature down include acetaminophen (Tylenol) or caffeine. The best thing to do is stay in the shade, rehydrate, and drink fluids to replace lost electrolytes.
Malignant hyperthermia: This is a dangerous and potentially fatal reaction to certain anesthetic drugs, such as dantrolene (Dantrium, Revonto, Ryanodex). You are at risk of developing malignant hyperthermia if you have an inherited genetic trait that makes you more susceptible.
Treatment for malignant hyperthermia involves cooling the body to a lower temperature with the use of ice packs or other measures. You should also receive supportive care from a healthcare provider.
Heat cramps: Muscles can become very rigid during intense physical activity in the heat. These heat cramps are caused by loss of electrolytes from perspiration and can occur in the arms, hands, lower legs and feet.
You can reverse these symptoms by drinking a lot of water or other liquids containing salt, such as diluted fruit juices. You can also use a cool compress to reduce the itching and pain.
The CDC recommends that you avoid exercising in the heat or other stressful situations where you could become hyperthermic. It is especially important to drink lots of fluids and rest during these circumstances, if you can.
